Written by: Jamee Kovacs, mom to Caleb
When Caleb was 8 years old, his grandmother took him to a Pitt football game. This was the beginning of an obsession with marching bands that continues to this day for our now 15-year/old.
From that day, we went to as many Pitt sporting events as we could fit into our schedule if we knew the band would be there. Caleb quickly became a familiar face to members of the Pitt band and the director, Dr. Brad Townsend. Dr. Townsend has done anything he could to make Caleb feel welcome and seen. He greets him by name every time he spots him and tells him it’s good to see him. On Caleb’s 14th birthday, the entire Pitt band played “Happy Birthday” for Caleb and then shouted “Happy Birthday, Caleb!”
I introduced myself to local high school band directors and asked if Caleb could come watch them practice. During Covid, we would attend lots of outdoor practices just for something to do!Â
In the summer of 2019, the Gateway band director for our school district asked me if Caleb would like to carry the banner in the 4th of July parade. This was the beginning of his permanent position as the banner carrier for the band. He has carried the banner in almost every parade they have been in for the past 6 1/2 years!!
This year, Caleb was invited to travel with the band to participate in a parade at Disney World. We knew we couldn’t pass up this opportunity. From the very first meeting we attended, I knew Caleb comprehended what was going on. He sat and listened during the meeting, occasionally squealing with excitement as details of the trip were discussed. When we got home, he went to his room and took his suitcase out of his closet! I had to explain to him that his trip to Disney was still many, many months away!
I’m so thankful that our band director recognizes and understands the value of true inclusion. Because of his lead, it carries over to the students as well. I am a teacher at Caleb’s high school, and we often pass other band members in the hallway who say hi to Caleb, give him a hug or a high five, and are just all around kind to him. Experiences like this are the reason we chose public school for Caleb. He loves people and loves to feel included!Â
Marching with the band at Disney’s Magic Kingdom was definitely the climax of his banner carrying career thus far! He did so well. He kept the pace, kept a smile on his face, kept the hat on, and kept a very professional posture and demeanor!! It was a truly special day for our entire family!
